Islam, Terrorism and the Strategy of Enlightened Moderation

The study focuses on analyzing the ongoing acts of violence and radicalism by individuals associated with Islam, in the light of teachings and principles of this great religion of peace, which denounces terrorism. Tracing the roots of terror in almost all faith and beliefs, it suggests that violence is not a function of faith; rather it is politically motivated with more fundamental causes and reasons for such acts. After detailed analysis of all the related aspects, the study concludes that such acts in the name of Islam are not consistent with the teachings of Islam. The study also attempts to answer these questions: Is the violence and radicalism being practiced in the name of Islam, Islamic? How has Islam, being a religion of peace, gained a reputation as a belief of war, violence, intolerance, and terror? What is the Islamic concept of jihad, and what are the misperceptions about this concept? It then suggests the means and ways to deal with the menace of terrorism in Muslim countries on a more comprehensive basis through the "Strategy of Enlightened Moderation," proposed by President Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan.